Isaiah 45:16

Authorized King James Version

They shall be ashamed, and also confounded, all of them: they shall go to confusion together that are makers of idols.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
בּ֥וֹשׁוּ
They shall be ashamed
properly, to pale, i.e., by implication to be ashamed; also (by implication) to be disappointed or delayed
#2
וְגַֽם
properly, assemblage; used only adverbially also, even, yea, though; often repeated as correl. both...and
#3
נִכְלְמ֖וּ
and also confounded
properly, to wound; but only figuratively, to taunt or insult
#4
כֻּלָּ֑ם
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#5
יַחְדָּו֙
together
properly, a unit, i.e., (adverb) unitedly
#6
הָלְכ֣וּ
all of them they shall go
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#7
בַכְּלִמָּ֔ה
to confusion
disgrace
#8
חָרָשֵׁ֖י
that are makers
a fabricator or any material
#9
צִירִֽים׃
of idols
a form (of beauty; as if pressed out, i.e., carved); hence, an (idolatrous) image

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Isaiah. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

People